What You Need to Know About Alprazolam Side Effects

Learn more about the history of alprazolam, alprazolam side effects, and the potential benefits of taking it here.

Alprazolam Overview

Alprazolam, also known as Xanax, is a drug that is commonly used to treat mental health conditions. It is generally in the form of a tablet. It is also available as an extended-release formulation. Alprazolam is in a class of medications known as benzodiazepines; however, it is slightly more toxic than other benzodiazepines. Alprazolam side effects and use cases will be detailed in this article.

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History of Alprazolam

J.B. Hester developed alprazolam. It received its patent in the 1970s. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the drug in 1981 for use by individuals experiencing panic or anxiety disorder.

The tablet form of the drug enables easy intake by reducing the frequency of the drug administration. It is a potent and addictive drug even when taken as prescribed by a medical practitioner. However, there is an increased risk of addiction when abused compared to when used as prescribed. In 2020, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported that about 17 million adults experienced substance use disorder.¹

Side Effects of Alprazolam

Although taking alprazolam has many benefits, it may also cause unwanted physical, behavioral, and mental effects. All the following alprazolam side effects may not occur. However, if they do occur, the individual may need medical attention. It is advisable to check with your doctor if you experience any of the following physical alprazolam side effects while taking the medication:²

Dry mouth
Irritability
Hypersalivation
Nausea
Excessive talking
Fever
Aches and pains
Anxiety
Jitteriness
Lethargy

Alprazolam Misuse

Individuals who misuse alprazolam may develop a physical dependence on the drug. This can lead to other cognitive alprazolam side effects. These individuals may also develop some behavioral alprazolam side effects, some of which include:

Development of long-term issues with concentration and attention
Difficulty making judgments or decisions, problem-solving, and controlling emotions
Behavior alterations such as lacking control of their drug use
Psychological issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression

Is Alprazolam Addictive?

Alprazolam is a short-acting drug that lasts for a few hours. Most individuals tend to become addicted to alprazolam because of its ability to cause rebound anxiety. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as depression, that take the drug may experience bipolar disorder. These individuals tend to have mood swings which can interfere with their daily activities and functioning.

Impacts of Alprazolam on Wellness

There are various alprazolam side effects on different aspects of an individual’s wellness. Alprazolam affects the body or lives of individuals in various ways. The following are some of the ways alprazolam impacts a person’s well-being.

Emotional Wellness

Alprazolam addiction often affects the emotional health of an individual. These individuals may often have problems at work, school, and even with their relationships with others. Prolonged use may lead to depression and rebound anxiety. Alprazolam is a central nervous depressant that can cause a range of euphoric feelings, although it typically helps to soothe or calm unruly emotions.

Physical Wellness

Alprazolam may cause an individual to have decreased libido, impaired coordination, and low blood pressure. These people may stagger and have slurred speech because the drug affects the central nervous system.

Although alprazolam is an effective drug when used according to the doctor’s prescription, individuals can develop an addiction to it. It may affect the physical health of the individual and cause paranoia, confusion, clumsiness, and drowsiness.

Social Wellness

Alprazolam is commonly used to treat panic disorders, but it is also effective for treating social anxiety disorder. It helps to relieve the symptoms of social anxiety and calm the nerves. Alprazolam binds to the GABA receptors in the brain. It slows down brain activity, thereby reducing fear, feelings of terror, and anxiety.

Financial Wellness

Alprazolam is a commonly prescribed drug in the United States because of its effectiveness in treating anxiety disorders. However, it is also recognized to have a potentially high risk of abuse. Alprazolam high is often described as tranquil and addictive. Most individuals experiencing alprazolam addiction tend to have financial problems.

These individuals may spend more money to obtain alprazolam because they crave it. They also tend to experience withdrawal symptoms which may cause them to obtain the drug. These individuals tend to lose track of their finances and experience severe financial problems.

Treatment Opportunities for Alprazolam Addiction

When someone experiences severe alprazolam side effects, it is advisable to seek medical help. Withdrawal symptoms are experienced when an individual abruptly stops using the medication. Various treatment options are available at medical facilities for the effective treatment of alprazolam side effects and addiction. Some of these treatment options are detailed below.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

This treatment involves the combination of medication with counseling and therapy. MAT is effective for substance use disorders such as treating alprazolam side effects and addiction. It is a scientifically proven treatment that helps individuals to fight drug dependency and relieve withdrawal symptoms.

MAT provides the individual with several benefits. It helps reduce the chances of relapse and overdose because it curbs and eliminates the cravings accompanying the drug. MAT also helps these individuals regain their lives because of its result-proven therapies and counseling.³

12-Step Programs

This treatment method operates as an abstinence-only program that provides individuals with community-based resources. The program uses a 12-Step peer support structure that consists of individuals who have experienced addiction. These 12 steps are guiding principles that help the individual avoid triggers and overcome substance use disorder.⁴

Outpatient Treatment

In this type of treatment, the individual checks in at the facility multiple times weekly for medical health checks and therapy. This type of treatment is best for people with responsibilities that cannot neglect work and school.

Other Support Services and Resources

Some other support services and resources that enable smooth recovery from alprazolam are:

Treat Your Alprazolam Use Disorder at Essence Health and Wellness

Alprazolam helps to treat anxiety and panic disorder. However, it can be addictive. It is advisable to use the medicine a medical professional prescribes to avoid drug misuse. Some alprazolam side effects are nausea, impaired coordination, and some other psychological issues. If you or someone you know is experiencing negative alprazolam side effects or addiction, Essence Health and Wellness is here to help.

What We Offer

At Essence Health and Wellness, we will meet you where you are in your addiction. Our team of compassionate professionals is here to help. Our therapists will develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. We offer a variety of treatment options, including inpatient and outpatient programs, psychotherapy, and more holistic approaches. These include yoga, meditation, and mindfulness exercises.

Contact Essence Health and Wellness Today

If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, you don’t have to do it alone. Reach out to Essence Health and Wellness today for more information about our available treatment options.